After earning his first call-up to the All Blacks for the June international test series with Wales, although he never made it onto the paddock, McKenzie still hopes to get the chance to make his international debut this season.

"It's always disappointing not getting named [in the All Blacks]," said McKenzie.

"I'm just really looking forward to coming back for Waikato and trying to put my best foot forward there and see what comes later this year."

McKenzie wants to bring what he's learned from his brief time with the All Blacks into his game for Waikato, who've not made the semifinals of the NPC since 2011.

"I'm really proud to be playing for this province. I just want to improve each week as a player on the field and enjoy my time with this team," he said.